ByValerie Lull​January is National Hot Tea Month, so I am writing about chrysanthemum tea. Chrysanthemum tea is one tea I was not familiar with but I discovered its been used for centuries. It is quite popular in China where it is an important part of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Chrysanthemum, also called mums, produces a beautiful flower. The tea is usually made from the flowers of Chrysanthemum morifolium or Chrysanthemum indicum. The flowers come in yellow and white. The tea is made from the flowers and is often compared to chamomile because of its calming properties. Historically and according to folklore chrysanthemum is good for anxiety, high blood pressure, respiratory problems, rheumatism and hyperthyroidism. In Chinese medicine it is good for the lungs, liver, kidneys and spleen. It is also a diuretic.

Chrysanthemum tea is easy to make. Use boiling water, I like it at 90 degrees. Put 4 flowers in a cup and pour the boiling water over it. Brew for 3-4 minutes. Serve hot or cold as desired. This tea is caffeine free for folks who are watching their caffeine intake.

Chrysanthemum does have side effects. It can make the skin extra sensitive to the sun. It is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women. Chrysanthemum is a member of the daisy family and if you are allergic to any plants in that category you may be allergic to chrysanthemum too. As always check with your health care provider before taking chrysanthemum tea.

Oregano, Oreganum vulgare, is a herb that comes from the Mediterranean part of the world. Oregano is used extensively in Italian cooking. It is also used for medicinal purposes and it has been used for thousands of years. It is a member of the mint family Lamiaceae, which includes both peppermint and catnip. The ancient Greeks thought it was given to them by Aphrodite and the name of the herb comes from the Greek words “oros” meaning mountain and “ganos” meaning joy.

Hippocrates used oregano as an antiseptic. The oil is particularly good for its antiseptic. anti-fungal and antibiotic properties. Some of the things it is used for is respiratory problems, and urinary tract infections. The oil can also be used on the skin though you might want to test an area first. Some folks are allergic to plants in the mint family.

Oregano is an anti-inflammatory. It helps to reduce low-grade inflammation which many scientists think is behind chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke and cancer. One of the constituents it contains is carvacrol which slows down inflammation. Oregano is also high in anti-oxidants that help slow the aging process. Some of the benefits of oregano include urinary tract disorders, digestion issues, menstrual cramps and respiratory problems.

Oregano is famous for its culinary uses. There are recipes all over the internet that use oregano. It is used in Italian and Greek cooking extensively. In America it is known as the pizza spice because it is used so often on pizza. There is some evidence that oregano may be used to lose weight. The thinking is that the carvacrol in oregano reverses the mechanisms that form fat cells.

Oregano oil is available as a liquid and also in capsules. Oregano can also be made into a tea or taken as a herb. I use oregano often and have found it very beneficial. As always when starting a herb be sure to talk it over with your health care provider. Many herbs and medicines do not mix.

People who are familiar with the Christmas story recognize these items as the gifts of the Magi to the Christ Child. They were rare and valuable commodities in ancient times. They are more readily available today. Did you know that all three of these items have health benefits?

Gold has many uses in modern medicine. It is used in surgery for damaged nerves, bones and blood vessels. It is used for treating several cancers, it is used to clear coronary arteries and it is used for arthritis treatment. Gold is used for regenerating sluggish organs, improving mental and emotional problems. It is reported to promote increased energy and libido.

Boswellia, which is what the ancients called Frankincense is used extensively in modern herbal medicine. It is a tree or shrub that produces a resin. This can be distilled into an essential oil that is antiseptic, disinfectant, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, tonic and a dozen other things. It is used in folk remedies for immune issues, oral health, astringent properties, female problems, digestion, anti-aging, as a tonic, a diuretic, and more.

Myrrh is also a resin that also comes from trees. Myrrh oil has been used for centuries by ancient cultures as well as modern ones. Myrrh resin and oil have been valued historically for its wound healing qualities. It is also valued for use on the skin, especially chapped skin. Myrrh oil is also used in perfumes and is used by aromatherapists as a massage oil. It can be used as a mouthwash, and in creams and lotions.

As the holidays continue I want to wish everyone who reads my blog a happy holiday season, and best wishes for the new year. May it be filled with joy, love, peace and happiness.

​First published on the blog for the American College of Healthcare Sciences http://ACHS.edu​

ByValerie Lull

Can you relate to this? You go to Thanksgiving dinner at Grandma’s, eat a bit too much, and feel exhausted, full, and uncomfortable for the rest of the evening. I get it–who can resist the gastronomic delights of the traditional holiday feast, especially when it is with loved ones who have prepared the meal?

While I always recommend eating a balanced diet full of whole foods, the holidays are often the time of year where we push our limits. The only problem is that you end up feeling bloated, irritable, and generally uncomfortable after over-eating.

Luckily for us, there are several herbal teas that can support normal, healthy digestion during the holidays.

Ginger Zingiber officinale (Roscoe) Tea

Ginger Zingiber officinale (Roscoe) is a spicy tea that l love. Its notable warming effect is lovely during the chilly weather of fall and winter. Ginger Z. officinale is a popular spice during the holidays with ginger bread, ginger cake, ginger cookies, and (for the kids!) gingerbread people and houses.

Ginger Z. officinale tea is also ideal for normal digestion. A nice cup of ginger Z. officinale tea helps promote normal movement through the digestive tract and elimination.[1] Ginger also aids in the normal digestion of fat, which can be abundant in holiday meals.[2]Peppermint Mentha ×piperita (L.) Tea

Peppermint Mentha ×piperita (L.) makes me think of candy canes and sweet after-dinner mints! Traditionally, mint has been used after a meal to ease healthy digestion. It can be in the form of a candy, or if you want to ditch the sugar (which I suggest!), it makes a delicious herbal tea! Additionally, peppermint P. ×piperita supports optimal food transit time and normal elimination.[3]

Cinnamon Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Blume)

The perfect warming spice for a cold winter day! We all know the holidays are filled with sugary sweets. But did you know that cinnamon C. zeylanicum can support healthy blood sugar levels already in the normal range and soothe and support digestion? Since you’re probably already cooking with cinnamon this winter, save a teaspoon for your evening cup of tea!

German Chamomile Matricaria recutita (L.) Tea

There’s a reason Peter Rabbit’s mother gave him chamomile tea when he was feeling unwell! Chamomile Matricaria recutita (L.) is another herbal remedy that has been used in folk medicine for centuries. It has traditionally been used to ease the stomach. It’s relaxing qualities are so soothing and gentle, that it’s been traditionally used with children and babies. Caution: Be sure to look up all contraindications and ask your pediatrician before givingchamomile M. recutita(or any herb)to an infant or child. Children under the age of five should not be given more than half a cup of tea per day.[4]​Licorice Glycyrrhiza glabra (L.) Tea

​When thinking of licorice, many think of the imitation-flavored candy. But when purchasing licorice Glycyrrhiza glabra (L.) for medicinal purposes, you need the real thing. Licorice G. glabra is especially soothing to the stomach. Be aware that licorice G. glabra may have side effects, so be sure it is the deglycyrrhizinated kind.[5] Tablets are a common way to take licorice, but a calming tea is a wonderful way to wind down after a big meal. Licorice G. glabra may not mix well with some medications, so be sure to check contraindications and ask your trusted holistic health practitioner before using licorice.Brewing Your Tummy TeasOf course, you can brew these herbs individually as teas, or get creative and blend them together. Just be sure to use the correct ratios and check for any contraindications.

Basic Tea Recipe (from the ACHS eBook: Brewing Herbal Teas)

Herb: 1 teaspoonPurified water: 1 cupPlace your herbs into a ceramic or glass teapot.Bring the water to a boil. Do not use an aluminum pot.Turn off the heat and pour the water over the herb.Cover the pot and let steep for five to 10 minutes.Strain the tea in a non-aluminum strainer and then drink. Use immediately. Do not store.

As we move into the holiday season, with so many goodies readily available, it’s easy to overeat. While we should do our best to make good choices around our nutrition, these delicious and tasty herbal teas can help support a healthy, happy tummy for the holidays.

​By,Valerie Lull MHTarragon, Artemisia dracunculus, is a herb that is often used in French cooking. There is also a Russian version of the herb but the French variety is more flavorful. In France tarragon is known as the "King of Herbs". Most people consider tarragon as a culinary herb, and some folks even call it a spice. It is used in fish, soups, stews, egg dishes, meat, tomato and sauces. The flavor of tarragon is similar to anise.

Tarragon was not used in ancient societies and the first mention of human use was more than 600 years ago. It was imported to Italy in the 10th century by the Mongols who used it for sleep and seasoning in foods. From there the use of the herb eventually spread to France.

Besides culinary uses, tarragon has health benefits. Some of them include digestive issues, appetite problems, toothache, to start menstruation and as a tea for insomnia. Tarragon contains the minerals calcium, Iron, magnesium, manganese and zinc. It also has vitamins A, C and several of the B vitamins.

Tarragon can be used fresh, or dried. It can be used to make a tea which some sources say can be used for weight loss. Tarragon can be used as an essential oil that can be diffused as a deodorizer, it can be added to bath water or used as a compress. It is also available in capsules or as an extract.

Tarragon use has a down side if used in excess. Children and pregnant women should not use it. Be sure to consult your health care provider before using tarragon for medicinal purposes. It might be a good idea to do the skin patch test to test for allergies. Simply put a diluted drop of tarragon essential oil on your skin. Wait awhile to see if there is a reaction.

​ByValerie Lull​There are many people who don't know about good nutrition. A typical meal is a burger, fries and a soft drink. The burger might provide some protein, but the rest is empty calories that add to your waistline and don't do much for your body. In today's blog I will talk about what good nutrition is. Nutrition is the study of foods and beverages and the components that make them up and how they effect the human body.

Nutrition starts with food. Not just any food, good food. It includes foods that help you grow and maintain a healthy body. Nutrition is important because it supplies the body with nutrients like vitamins and minerals that are important for sustaining life. Nutrition is a science that studies how foods are broken down to create cells and tissues in the body. Nutrition shows how various conditions and diseases can be prevented by a healthy diet. It also identifies things like malnutrition from a poor diet, and food allergies.

Nutritional supplements are substances in pill, capsule or liquid form that are meant to supplement the diet. While most of the diet should be made up of healthy foods, supplementation is sometimes desirable or even necessary. Supplements are meant to supply nutritional deficiencies. For example, someone who lives in a damp, rainy environment may be lacking Vitamin D because of inadequate sun exposure. For that person a vitamin D supplement may be necessary.

A big problem is soil erosion, pesticides and GMO products. Folks might want to get organic foods or go to farmer's markets. Some folks feel that the food is not of adequate to supply all the nutrients they need. Supplements may be desirable to make up lack. One way to deal with this is to grow your own food. DO NOT start a supplement without first discussing it with your health care provider. Supplements may be great but some of them do not mix with prescription drugs.

ByValerie Lull​Green tea is a beverage from ancient times that has had an impact on human health and healing. Folklore is full of anecdotes and remedies. In modern times the use of green tea for brain health has become more researched. Alzheimer's Disease seems to be happening these days in record numbers. Is there anything that will help this disease?

Some fascinating research has been done on green tea and Alzheimer's. A researcher from McMaster University in Canada, named Melacini, thinks that the best way to avoid Alzheimer's is to prevent it in the first place. He feels green tea used as much as 15 -25 years before the onset of Alzheimer's is one way to prevent it. (1)

The key substance in green tea that seems to be working, are the catechins. We've talked about catechins in the last two blogs. Another study from 2002 in the Journal of Biological Chemistry indicates that green tea can do more than prevent dementia, but helps brain function, memory and decreases damage done by metal toxicity. (2)

I feel that while drinking green tea is definitely an asset to one's brain, other good health practices should be used along with green tea. There seems to be a synergy between multiple approaches as opposed to doing just one thing. These things include nutritious diet, exercise, and social and spiritual aspects of life.

Remember, if you want to use green tea for medicinal purposes be sure to discuss it with your health care provider.

While we all know that someday we will die, there are things that can be done to slow down the aging process and have a better quality of life right up to the end. Nature has provided a great many things that can help us achieve these goals. Who wants to be sitting in a wheelchair in a nursing home, and who wants to be a burden to their families? By adding these simple things to your diet you can help maintain your independence and have a quality life.​ Oregano - has the highest antioxidant level of all herbs. Antioxidants are important for fighting free radicals which speed up the aging process. Oregano is also anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is a definite part of the ageing process and slowing it down is a good preventative measure. Oregano is also antibiotic and antiviral, which means it helps keep these nasty microbes under control.

Ginger - A little sliced ginger with honey in hot water makes a delicious tea. This anti aging secret comes form India and helps reduce inflammation and reduces collagen breakdown. Sipping a cup of ginger tea on a cold fall or winter morning also has a calming effect. This is one of my personal favorites.

Turmeric - Another anti aging secret from India is Turmeric. The people in India have a much lower rate of Alzheimer's disease than other countries. This is thought to be because of the extensive use of turmeric in their diet. Turmeric contains high levels of antioxidants and inflammatory substances. Turmeric contains curcumin which many people have found can relieve arthritis pain.

Chili - can help with circulation problems and coughs and colds. It is great for clearing your sinuses. Chili contains capsaicin, which is an antiinflammatory that relieves pain. It can be obtained in ointments and patch form and is popular for relieving minor aches and pains in the body.

Cinnamon - This is a spice that was popular among the ancients for its health benefits. In recent times it has been studied for it's use in controlling blood sugar levels. A half teaspoon per day can improve insulin sensitivity which can help control weight and prevent heart disease

It is so easy to just add a little spice to your diet. It makes your food taste good and it is good nutrition when used in moderation. If you desire to use it as a medicinal be sure to consult your health care provider because some spices may not mix well with your medications. Expert advice is always important.

There are many junk foods out there that can cause brain fog and unclear thinking. There are also a number of good foods that help to clear up and prevent foggy thinking. They are literally “food for thought”. Food can effect your moods as well as your ability to think clearly. Food can contribute to the state of your mental health. Here are a few healthy foods that can help clear up your thinking.

YogurtYogurt contains probiotics which are healthy bacteria. The mix of bacteria in your digestive system can have a direct effect on your thinking processes. Fermented foods like yogurt can help provide the right bacteria to keep you functioning at your best. Probiotics affect neurotransmitters, and oxidative stress. which can be helpful in treating depression. Be careful about what kind of yogurt you get. Many popular brands are laden with sugar and artificial color and additives. Be sure you get a reputable brand.

FishMany kinds of fish contain omega-3’s. These fatty acids can play a large role in assisting with anxiety and depression. They are important for mental health and can be easily obtained by eating fish two or more times a week. You can also get omega-3’s in fish oil supplements. Another popular way to get omega-3’s is by taking krill oil capsules.

BerriesThere are many kinds of berries that are truly delicious and readily available both fresh and frozen. Of course organic are best, if they are available. Berries contain huge amounts of antioxidants and these can fight free radicals which can help with depression problems.

GreensJust about everyone knows that veggies are good for you; especially green leafy veggies. Spinach, broccoli, and beet greens are loaded with vitamins that all contribute to clear thinking. They are a great source of folate (vitamin B-9) which may help depression. They also contain carotenoids which boost brain power. and antioxidants which may help depression.

There are four teas that come from the Camellia sinensis plant. They are black tea, green tea, oolong, and white tea. White tea has an exotic past. It comes from China and historically was only available to the royal court of the emperor, not the masses. There was one emperor who nearly lost his empire over white tea.

The difference between the four teas mentioned above is that black tea is oxidized, oolong tea is less oxidized, green tea leaves are withered, and white tea leaves uncured and unfermented. The tea leaves for white tea are the very young leaves and buds. They are harvested at a much earlier stage in growth than the leaves for the other teas. The leaves have very fine silver hairs on them giving rise to the variety of white tea variety called Silver Needle.

Because white tea is the least processed, it has the highest levels of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body from free radicals that are generated as a result of cell metabolism. Free radicals can damage DNA and speed up the ageing process. Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals.

White tea ranges from pale yellow to almost clear in the cup. The tea has a very delicate taste. People who have compromised taste buds will probably think it is water. Adding lemon to white tea causes more antioxidants to be released. The action of the antioxidants help to slow down ageing and help to prevent diseases like cancer, and heart disease. White tea appears to be good for one’s skin and for oral health. People use it for weight loss.

White tea can be found blended with other things like green tea, rooibos tea, and fruits like raspberry, pomegranate, mango and pear. White tea is becoming more and more popular and so is more and more available. For people who are watching their caffeine intake white tea has less caffeine than black or green tea and a lot less than coffee. The caffeine content can also vary depending on how long it steeps and how hot the water is.

About Valerie Lull

Valerie is a graduate from the American College of Healthcare Sciences. She has always had a passion for good health and the health benefits of herbal preparations. At the age of 45 Valerie was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes and became interested in natural ways to maintain health. She has a desire to share this information and show people how easy it is to stay healthy.

About Valerie's Books

Valerie has written a book called Ten Healthy Teas. Sometimes staying healthy is as simple as drinking a cup of tea. Valerie just published her second book Ten Spices for Health and Longevity. Valerie also writes a weekly blog called "Simple Ways to Stay Healthy".